Authors: Andreea-Maria Tacsa1,2, Dana Badau1
Affiliation
1Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania
2University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology G.E.Palade of Targu-Mures, Romania
Abstract
Background. Optimizing aerobic capacity is an essential aspect of students’ physical development, directly impacting physical performance, overall health, and academic achievement.
Aims. The functional training program, utilizing innovative equipment, can optimize students’ maximum oxygen volume (VO2max).
Methods. The experimental group, consisting of 40 students (20 male and 20 female) from the general medicine specialization, participated in functional training sessions that took place twice a week during physical education lessons. Cardiovascular exercises performed with innovative equipment were integrated into these functional training sessions. The study used the VO2max aerobic exercise test to evaluate parameters such as: volume of oxygen consumed per minute (VO2 L/min), volume of oxygen consumed per minute per kilogram of body mass (VO2/kg, ml/min/kg), respiratory exchange rate between O2 and CO 2 (RER), respiratory frequency (BF, cycles/minute), total amount of air breathed in one minute (VE /L/ min).
Results. Data analysis using SPSS software indicated a statistically significant improvement for all parameters. The greatest progress of the experimental group was in the VE parameter (total amount of air breathed in one minute). These results suggest that functional training using innovative equipment can effectively improve the maximum volume of oxygen.
Conclusion. The students’ aerobic exercise capacity improved as a result of the functional training program, which was tailored to their individual characteristics and fitness levels.
Keywords: VO2max, aerobic capacity, functional training, fitness, cardiovascular exercises, Aqua Fit equipment.
